ing in 1638 to the present. It is written primarily for the
non-Belizean reader, but hopefully will serve as a handy refer-
ence book for Belizeans as well. I believe this "mini-encyclo-
pedia" on the subject of Belize will prove a helpful tool for
anyone interested in the country: scholars, journalists, business-
men, tourists, history buffs, or general readers.

To my friends in Belize who have offered encouragement
and advice, I owe a special debt, as well as the many librarians,
clerks, and archivists, who have helped in my research. While
much of this book is based on personal impressions formed in
the course of residence and travel in the area, I have been
influenced by the scholarly works of the authors listed in the
bibliography, and in some cases have borrowed extensively. To
them I am also grateful.

I owe a very special thanks to Illene for her help in too
many ways to mention, and to my children for their patience
and interest.

Fremont, California

January, 1975

-ix-